05/25/2025
🚨 **URGENT WARNING FOR DOG OWNERS IN CLARK COUNTY\!** 🚨
We're seeing an increase in deadly algae blooms in our local waterways, including the new and highly dangerous benthic algae in the Columbia River. This isn't just the typical "pea soup" green stuff you might see on the surface – benthic algae grows on riverbeds and lake bottoms, can detach, and form deadly mats that might look like harmless plant debris.
**Two dog deaths have recently been linked to exposure to benthic algae in the Columbia River near Camas, WA.** Symptoms can be rapid and severe, including tremors, drooling, stumbling, seizures, and can unfortunately lead to death.
**What you need to know:**
* **Benthic algae is hard to spot:** Unlike floating blooms, these grow on the bottom and can wash ashore as slimy, gelatinous mats. They can be bright or dark green, yellow, brown, orange, or red.
* **Even a small amount can be fatal:** Dogs can ingest toxins by drinking contaminated water, licking their fur after contact, or eating shoreline debris with the algae.
* **No antidote exists:** Early veterinary care is crucial, but prevention is the only sure way to protect your pet.
**To keep your dog safe:**
* **AVOID all water with visible algae:** If you see any suspicious looking "scum," mats, or discolored water, keep your dog out. "When in doubt, stay out\!"
* **Keep dogs on leash near shorelines:** This prevents them from accessing potentially contaminated water or debris.
* **Don't let them drink from natural water sources:** Always bring fresh water for your dog.
* **Rinse thoroughly:** If your dog does come into contact with questionable water, rinse them immediately with clean water and prevent them from licking their fur.
* **Seek veterinary care immediately:** If your dog shows any symptoms like vomiting, diarrhea, weakness, stumbling, disorientation, drooling, or seizures after being near water, contact your vet *urgently*.
**Where to check water quality in Clark County WA parks:**
For the most up-to-date information on water quality advisories and confirmed algae blooms in Clark County, always check the official Clark County Public Health website:
➡️ **Clark County Public Health: Recreational Water Safety:** https://clark.wa.gov/public-health/public-beaches
This page provides information on monitored beaches (Vancouver Lake Regional Park, Klineline Pond, Battle Ground Lake) and will list any current advisories. You can also find their FAQ about their swim beach program, including how they monitor for algae.
Please share this vital information to help protect our beloved furry friends!
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